Mod8-Obj1: Nervous and endocrine communication Flashcards
The nervous system
Regulates cell and organ activity of all body system via electrochemical impulses
Nervous system characteristics
- Fast responding
- Innervates multiple targets rapidly (maintain homeostasis or increase the body’s activity when necessary)
The endocrine system
Composed of cells and organs that synthesis and release hormones (chemical messengers) that are transported in the blood, to influence activity of a target cell
Endocrine system characteristics
- Chemical messengers occur much slower
- Long lasting
- Generally only have one target
The nervous and endocrine systems are tightly integrated and are controlled by the…
Hypothalamus
The endocrine system controls and integrates body functions including
- Reproductive processes
- Growth and development
- Maintenance of electrolyte, water, and nutrient balance of the blood
- Regulation of metabolic rate and energy utilisation
- Mobilisation of body defences (stress response)
Hypothalamus
Controls the secretion of hormones from the pituitary gland
Pituitary gland
Secretes multiple hormones that regulate the endocrine activities of various organs
Pineal gland
Regulates reproductive function and the circadian rhythm (day-night cycle)
Thyroid gland
Regulates metabolic rate and calcium levels
Parathyroid gland
Regulates calcium ion concentration in fluid
Thymus
Develop and maintain immune defences
Adrenal gland
Secretes adrenalin (sympathetic nervous system), influences metabolic rate (glucocorticoids), controls the stress response
Pancreas
Secrets the hormone insulin and glucagon in response to changes in blood glucose levels
Gonads
Regulate growth, metabolism and sexual characteristics (ovaries in females, testis in males)
